Switzerland halts new arms licences to US over Iran war

The Swiss government has asked parliament to approve an estimated $4.3 billion to bolster defence, including air defence, counter-drone capabilities and cyber security. The measures are intended to respond to the deteriorating security environment following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The plans include the purchase of German IRIS-T SLM missile systems and investment in protection against small drones. The government is also seeking additional funding for the acquisition of F-35A fighter jets.

Alongside these steps, however, Switzerland has said it will not authorise new arms export licences to the United States, citing its neutrality in the context of the US–Israeli war against Iran.

The government said the military must place greater emphasis on defending against remote attacks and hybrid threats. Defence Minister Martin Pfister stressed that the country is currently insufficiently prepared for the most likely forms of threat.

(reuters, max)